All Saints Anglican/Methodist Primary School in Elston, Nottinghamshire, has been inspected on 20 June 2024, and the overall judgement remains good. The evidence collected during this ungraded inspection indicates that the school may achieve an outstanding rating if a graded inspection were conducted. The next inspection will be a graded one.
Pupils express a strong sense of happiness, safety, and pride in attending All Saints. The school fosters a warm and inclusive environment, with students feeling comfortable sharing their thoughts on how to improve the school. One pupil humorously suggested that the school should be open on weekends, reflecting the positive atmosphere. Parents echo these sentiments, with one stating that the school is caring and friendly, highlighting the community's appreciation for the school’s environment.
The school provides numerous opportunities for pupils to engage in activities that nurture their talents and interests. Many students are participating in a summer performance of The Wizard of Oz, showcasing their impressive singing abilities. Leadership opportunities are abundant, with pupils involved in initiatives like the pupil parliament and eco-council. Students feel heard by the staff, who value their ideas and contributions to school life.
All Saints takes the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development of its pupils seriously. The school offers a comprehensive personal development and enrichment program, preparing students to be responsible and respectful citizens. During playtime, pupils from various year groups interact positively, fostering strong relationships characterized by trust and respect. The attitudes of pupils towards learning are exemplary, with classrooms that are busy and purposeful, ensuring that no time is wasted. Particularly in the early years and key stage one, pupils thrive and celebrate their achievements.
Leadership at the school, including governors, demonstrates a strong commitment to the future success of the institution, prioritizing the interests of children. A culture of collaboration is evident among staff and students, with the majority of parents recognizing this commitment. Staff members are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The school effectively oversees the welfare of vulnerable pupils.
Staff morale is high, with educators appreciating the professional development opportunities provided. They apply their learning swiftly and feel supported by leaders who are mindful of their workload and well-being. Both staff and pupils take pride in their association with the school and its community.
The curriculum at All Saints is broad and well-organized, with high expectations set from the start of Reception and maintained throughout all year groups. Subject leaders ensure that the curriculum builds pupils' knowledge and skills progressively, starting strongly in the early years. Teachers and support staff have a clear understanding of what is taught and when, particularly in mixed-age classes.
A strong emphasis on reading is evident throughout the school, with a culture of daily reading established. Pupils articulate their experiences with various authors and books, and the phonics program is particularly effective. Early years pupils are taught to read exceptionally well, preparing them for future academic success. Regular assessments allow staff to monitor reading development closely, providing timely support to those who need it. High expectations are also set for spelling and handwriting, with pupils responding positively.
Teachers possess strong subject knowledge, designing engaging learning activities that maintain pupils' focus and uphold high expectations. Staff effectively address misconceptions, preventing gaps in knowledge. Children in Reception benefit from high-quality interactions with adults, fostering enthusiasm for learning and resulting in high-quality work across subjects.
The school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain, promoting Christian and British values through a well-crafted personal development program. Pupils demonstrate a strong understanding of moral issues and respect for diversity. Weekly discussions on contemporary issues enhance their respect for differences and knowledge of protected characteristics.
Pupils are taught how to stay safe in various environments and know whom to approach with concerns, confident that staff will act in their best interests. The school environment is vibrant and stimulating, promoting physical and emotional well-being through dedicated spaces like the trim trail and forest school.
Governors possess a strong understanding of the school's strengths and development priorities, actively supporting its pursuit of excellence. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, ensuring a safe environment for all pupils. This inspection marks the first ungraded evaluation since the school was judged to be good in March 2019.
